ROYAL OAK, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Growlers (31-28; 14-10) squandered a bevy of opportunities with runners on base, ultimately falling 4-7 to the Royal Oak Leprechauns (27-30; 10-11).
The first few innings were all Growlers, as Jack Crittendon would face the minimum through three, while the offense would have plenty of traffic. In the first, Preston Barr would be chased following just 36 pitches and one run, but would leave the bases loaded following an Isaac Vanderwoude strike out. In the second, it was Braden LaRusso on the bump, who would see one run, two hits, and make an error, before striking out Gabe Springer to leave two runners in scoring position.
The first Royal Oak run would come in the fourth, as Danny Cook would bring in his first run of the day. Crittendon would find another 1-2-3 inning in the fifth, with his offense again failing to capitalize, stranding two runners on.
In the bottom of the sixth, the 2-1 Growler load would be flipped on its head in a three pitcher, six run inning that saw the Leprechauns find just two hits but take a 7-2 lead. Royal Oak took six free passes and 50 pitches across the long inning. With the game suddenly flipped on its head, Kalamazoo would finally begin to capitalize with runners on, but it was too little too late in the 7-4 loss.
Overall, a small positive was the performance of struggling outfielder JD Crisp who, after a home run in one at-bat Friday night, went 4-4 with a two-run double that scored Kalamazoo’s final two runs. The bad was the Growlers offense with runners on. Despite sending seven more batters to the plate, finding four more hits, and forcing two errors, Kalamazoo was just unable to bring runners in. Of the 12 runners the Growlers left on base, eight were left in scoring position.
Kalamazoo and Royal Oak will finalize their Kalamazoo legs of the 2025 series with a Sunday matinee, with the game scheduled for 1:35 p.m. ET.
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The Kalamazoo Growlers are a premier collegiate summer baseball team competing in the Northwoods League. Since their inaugural season in 2014, the Growlers have quickly become a beloved part of the Kalamazoo community, known for their exciting games, dedicated fans, and unique ballpark experience. The Growlers have a history of pushing the boundaries of baseball entertainment. From viral promotions like “Coach Drake” and “The Streaker” to unique giveaways and themed nights, the team consistently delivers unforgettable experiences for fans of all ages. The Growlers have clinched two Northwoods League championships in 2022 and 2024, solidifying their position as a powerhouse in the league. Their passionate fan base and dedicated players have fueled their success on the field, creating memorable moments that will be cherished for years to come. Beyond baseball, the Growlers are committed to giving back to the Kalamazoo community. The team actively participates in charitable initiatives, supports local businesses, and fosters a positive impact on the region. For more information, please visit growlersbaseball.com
The Northwoods League is the proven leader in the development of elite college baseball players. Entering its’ 32nd season, the Northwoods League is the largest organized baseball league in history with 24 teams, drawing significantly more fans, in a friendly ballpark experience, than any league of its kind. A valuable training ground for coaches, umpires, and front office staff, nearly 2400 NWL alums have been drafted and over 380 Northwoods League players have advanced to Major League Baseball, including three-time All-Star and 2016 Roberto Clemente Award winner Curtis Granderson, three-time Cy Young Award winner and two-time World Series Champion Max Scherzer (TOR), two-time World Series Champions Ben Zobrist and Brandon Crawford and World Series Champion and Cy Young Award winner Chris Sale (ATL). As well as 2019 Rookie of the Year and 2019/2021 Home Run Derby Champion Pete Alonso (NYM) and 2023 World Series Champion, MLB All-Star, MLB Gold Glove, two-time Silver Slugger winner and two-time All-MLB first team shortstop Marcus Semien (TEX). League games are viewable live on Northwoods League+ (at watch.northwoodsleague.com), ESPN+, and the Northwoods League Network.